Gerald J. Glasser Brain Tumor Center has a new space to call its own, backed by the many resources of Atlantic Neuroscience Institute and Carol G. Simon Cancer Center.
Nothing about facing a brain tumor can be considered “easy,” but that does not mean access to quality care should be difficult, too. At Gerald J. Glasser Brain Tumor Center – now situated in its own space on the main level of Overlook Medical Center – quality and convenience have converged to create an optimal patient experience.
“It can be difficult for patients – especially if they have neurological deficits from their tumor – to keep coming back to the hospital for multiple appointments or, worse, having to go to multiple locations to see their doctors,” acknowledges neuro-oncologist Kurt Jaeckle, MD, co-medical director with neurosurgeon Yaron Moshel, MD, PhD, of Gerald J. Glasser Brain Tumor Center. “We’re coordinating the efforts of their medical care in one place so they have easier access to care.”
Communication among health care providers is also improved. “Putting everyone together in the same physical space creates a synergy,” says Dr. Jaeckle. “No matter how experienced we are as individuals, when we come together, the results are better for the patient. Our doctors and nurses are able to talk to one another to devise a plan that is best for the patient. That’s a lot different than a doctor who makes a decision alone or without the resources of a team.”
“Everything is so well-coordinated,” says Sandra Pressimone, manager of neuroscience research and neurodiagnostics for Atlantic Neuroscience Institute. “We’re able to offer our brain tumor patients the highest quality of care, and our research and clinical trials are always evolving to provide our patients with the newest treatment options. Our patients do not have to be concerned about getting lost in the system.”
“Everyone benefits,” adds Pat Eagan, patient navigator. “We benefit as health care providers but most important, our patients and their families and caregivers benefit. We were always able to offer comprehensive services, but putting everyone together like this creates a totally different experience.”
Specialists at the Gerald J. Glasser Brain Tumor Center treat a variety of brain tumors and related conditions, including acoustic neuromas and schwannomas; anaplastic astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas and low-grade gliomas; brain, epidural and leptomeningeal metastases; ependymomas; glioblastomas; low-grade astrocytomas; lymphomas; meningiomas; medulloblastomas; peripheral nerve, pineal and pituitary tumors; rare glial and neuronal tumors; sarcomas; and spinal cord tumors.
The center features a multidisciplinary panel of experts who specialize in neurosurgery, skull base surgery, neuroradiology, radiation oncology, neuro-oncology, medical oncology, neurology, neuropathology and social work. Overlook Medical Center also has the largest CyberKnife® program in the Tri-State Area for the treatment of brain tumors.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 908-516-2941.